PhD post: Dynamics of the Amazonian mud bank system

Dynamics of the Amazonian mud bank system through spatial observation and hydro-sedimentary modeling: application to the coastal domain of French Guiana

Due to its geographical position near by the Amazon river estuary, French Guiana coastal domain is permanently under the influence of huge mud inputs from this river forming important mud bank structures migrating along the coastline. The migration of these mud banks continuously modulates the geomorphology of this coastal area characterized by an alternance of erosion and accretion zones. The understanding of the processes driving the migration of the mud banks represents a crucial issue at regional scale for various field of application (e.g. ecology, coastal management...). Recent studies have demonstrated the interest of using the information delivered by ocean color observation (MERIS, MODIS, SeaWIFs) for describing synoptically the Amazonian mud banks system. Despite their obvious interest, the latter medium spatial resolution data are however not fine enough for allowing a precise description of the hydro-sedimentary processes involved in this original geomorphological system.

This PhD was built in the latter context and will aim at providing a better understanding of the Guianese mud banks system through the development of innovative approaches coupling medium and high spatial resolution remote sensing observation and hydro-sedimentary modeling.

Specifically, a first of the PhD will consist in developing remote sensing observation of suspended sediment concentration in the coastal waters of French Guiana using medium (e.g. MERIS) and high resolution sensors (Landsat-8). This activity will need the development of inversion algorithms adapted to the high turbidity of this coastal domain and will provide innovative data especially regarding the high resolution sensors.

Further, a second part of the PhD activity will consist in the adaptation of a hydro-sedimentary model (TELEMAC) to the investigated region based on the in situ and satellite data gathered in the frame of the PhD that will complement existing data in the area.

In practice this PhD will be held at the CNRS-Guyane (Cayenne) and will couple in situ and programming activities that will benefit from the facilities already available in the laboratory.

Application: Resume and cover letter.

Contact: Antoine Gardel (This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.), Vincent Vantrepotte (This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.) & Nicolas Huybrechts (This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.)